Today's Opinions

To the editor: With the close of another school year, I’d like to take the time to thank our supporting businesses in Brunswick County.

The Occupational Course of Study program within Brunswick County Schools offers specialized instruction for students with disabilities that combine functional academics and 900 hours of work experience to earn a N.C. diploma. Without our local supporting businesses, this would not be possible.

To the editor: For years the United Nations has had multiple resolutions passed against North Korea from its withdrawal from the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty to economic sanctions.

With North Korea, words of threats mean nothing to them, got it? Nada, zip. The leader of North Korea is quick to threaten and also demonstrate his threats by means of testing his weapons. Anyone been watching the news lately? Two atomic tests.

To the editor: After attending the recent public meetings at Carolina Shores Town Hall, I am convinced of the following: (1) the move to a council-manager system has not been thoroughly discussed among commissioners (two have publicly acknowledged a need for further study), and (2) the citizens of Carolina Shores have not been given ample opportunity to either learn what is being proposed, learn the consequences of this change or have a say in whether or not this is the way they want to proceed.

Having surgery is never a walk in the park--worry and anxiety plague you until the day arrives. However, when it’s your child who’s having surgery, you can multiply your worry and anxiety times 100, and know you will be sitting on pins and needles until the doctor comes out to tell you he or she is ready.

When I went to my son’s pre-op appointment at Brunswick Community Hospital, I was already terrified. He was scheduled to have his tubes replaced in both ears. The surgery was one week away, but talking about it made my eyes tear up and my voice crack.

I had yet to really be tested two years ago when I marched up to then-county commissioners chairman David Sandifer and demanded, in the spirit of the law, he open to the public a meeting to discuss lowering Smithville Township’s tax rate for Dosher Memorial Hospital.

Anxiously, and wondering what outcome our conversation might have, I proceeded with the Beacon’s argument that, although no quorums would be met, a group of elected officials discussing public business should be open to the public.

To the editor, In the fall of last year, I noticed in the back section of the Beacon applications were being accepted for a Housing Rehab Grant Program. I submitted my application, and my home was one of several homes chosen for this program.

I have noticed in the Beacon there are more grant programs for home rehabilitation being advertised, and I urge anyone who would qualify and in need of home repairs needed due to mechanical or safety reasons to apply for these grants.

It’s been a rough year for nonprofit agencies in Brunswick County. Late in 2008, the Beacon reported financial strains felt by Brunswick Family Assistance could have led to the agency’s closure. However, community members stepped up and through the influx of food and money, the agency has been able to continue to serve residents.

That’s a good thing on many levels, especially with the announcement the agency will once again this summer participate in a feeding program that will provide free meals to children throughout Brunswick County while school is on break.